3 Advantages of Using Steel Framing in Construction

Steel is a common and amazing construction material used around the entire world. It is produced globally. This material has impressive characteristics that make it ideal for use as framing in construction.

Steel is strong, versatile, durable, and sustainable. It is also ductile and can be formed into many different shapes and sections making it ideal for unique construction projects. Here are 3 advantages of using steel for framing.

1. Strength

Steel is one of the strongest construction materials available. It can be used for horizontal, vertical, angled, and curved framing components, such as beams, columns, roof trusses, and domes.

Steel can span very long distances. A benefit of this capability is that it allows for the use of large expanses of glass or curtain wall systems for more natural daylight that encourages us to function more efficiently.

Structural steel is hot rolled while molten and hardened, making it exceptionally strong. This steel can also be used to reinforce poured concrete for foundations, parking structures, and roadways. Structural steel is thicker and heavier than light gauge steel. The best fastening methods are bolting, riveting, and welding.

Light gauge steel is cold-formed from thin sheets of metal. It is generally formed into lightweight U, C, or Z shapes to be used in interior framing for walls and ceilings. It is not as strong as structural steel, yet it is a perfect option over lumber for attaching gypsum board to.

2. Durability

It is important to note that the lifespan of steel exceeds that of lumber. Steel framing systems are generally designed to withstand the forces of nature, such as high winds and heavy snow loads. In the event of a natural disaster, steel structures are often capable of remaining intact and still standing.

Steel can be protected from corrosion by painting or galvanizing it. Stainless steel framing members are naturally corrosion-resistant. Stainless is not just durable, it is also very attractive and can be polished to a mirror-like finish. It is stunning when used in floating staircases and entrance canopies.

3. Sustainability

Many people do not realize that steel is recyclable. In fact, the World Steel Association cites that steel is the most recyclable material in the world. As soon as a steel-framed building is dismantled or demolished, the material can be gathered, cleaned, and recycled to be used again and again without compromise to the inherent strength of the material.

The recycling and reusable quality of steel also mean that it isn’t ending up in landfills. This has a great impact on our already stressed environment. The ability to repurpose or remanufacture steel equates to less depletion of our natural resources, such as our forests that serve to filter the atmosphere so that we have cleaner air to breathe.

Conclusion

There are many advantages of using steel framing in construction. The 3 most important advantages are strength, durability, and sustainability. Steel framing is often used in large urban environments to create taller buildings. However, it is also perfect for commercial warehouses, arenas, and residences. The versatility and longevity of steel make it a smart and economical choice for framing. There are many companies that specialize in steel-framed construction if you are looking for information.